I was interested in getting a rifle for small game. Don't know what caliber to get. But I want something that can take down squirrel to even a coyote.This rifle will be used for all furbearers as well.
So what calibers do you suggest? Semi-auto or bolt action? Btw, i'm a lefty!
17 hmr or 22 mag would be cheapest way to go. Marlins and Savages start at about $160-170. Max effective range on a coyote would probably be 100 yds maybe 125-150. A 223, 22-250, 243 would be the next option. These centerfirerounds are very accurate and can be used for variety of game, but you will spend a minimum of $400-500. Also, I would not shoot a squirrels in a tree with a highpower centerfire round. So, maybe the 17 hmr is the best way to go.
I've killed a bobcat at about a 100 yds, aturkey at 75 yds, andsome prairie dogs out to about 175 yds with my marlin 17 hmr w/ a tasco varmint 6-24x42 scope. All of these mentioned were bolt actions. If you don't already have a 22 long rifle, that should be your first thing to get. Marlin, savage, ruger 10/22, remington597 take your pick.
I just traded for a Savage Model 93R17-GLV, lh, accutrigger, heavy barrel .17hmr. With the snow our range is closed so haven't really shot for groups yet at 100 yards but took it out to do a rough site in and it shot good freehand. For the price excellent is my thought.
CZ also make LH versions but they are quite a bit more spendy.
If you like lever actions, I would suggest the Marlin in 218 Bee, or 25-20. They may be a tad heavy for squirrel. But would work great on everthing else.
I am left handed and I like the Encore. Anything from 22 mag. to 22 Hornet should be fine.
Do you handload. If so, you can load down the small centerfires for squirrels. If you do not handload, I woulds go with a 22 mag. IMO it is superior to the 17HMR. I believe Savage makes a LH rimfire? You can now get an Encore in 22 Mag. Tom.
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We need to stop using these terms today, "Sniper Rifle", "Tactical", "Assault Weapon".
i'll put in a vote for a bolt action .22 mag. not too big for squirell yet not too small for yotes. you should be able to pop yotes up to 200 yards with it. i have easily shot wild cats over 150 yards with one.
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I just traded for a Savage Model 93R17-GLV, lh, accutrigger, heavy barrel .17hmr. With the snow our range is closed so haven't really shot for groups yet at 100 yards but took it out to do a rough site in and it shot good freehand. For the price excellent is my thought.
You won't be dissapointed 7MM. When I tested mine to see what sort of factory fodder it preferred my worst 5 shot group with it was .9" at 100 yards. The best was right at .35"! Off the bench, assuming its calm and I can see well enough, that gun can take then primer out of a spent shotgun shell hull every time! She shoots way better than I ever could!
I have taken a sprinkling of game with mine, including a bobcat at about 80 yards and some crows out to almost 250 yards. Wind is a big consideration, but the bullet will do it if you place it right. Not much margin of error on some of the bigger stuff.
__________________ You get what you put in, and people get what they deserve. - Kid Rock
Small game rifle?
